Pandora’s box is an artifact in Greek mythology. The “box” was actually a large jar given to Pandora (“all-gifted”), which contained all the evils of the world. When Pandora opened the jar, the entire contents of the jar were released, but for one – hope. Today, opening Pandora’s box means to create evil that cannot be undone.

Pandora was the first woman on Earth. Pandora was created upon the command of Zeus to Hephaestus, the god of craftsmanship. Hephaestus created her using water and earth, while other gods granted her many gifts (for example, beauty from Aphrodite, persuasiveness from Hermes, and music from Apollo).

After Prometheus stole fire from heaven, Zeus sought reprisal by handing Pandora to Epimetheus, the brother of Prometheus. At the same time, Pandora was given a jar that she was ordered not to open under any circumstances. Despite this warning, overcome by curiosity Pandora opened the jar. Upon doing so, the evils contained within escaped into the world. Scared, Pandora immediately closed the jar, only to trap Hope inside, as was Zeus’ will.

In other versions, Hope does come out though the main purpose of the myth of Pandora is to address why evil exists in the world.